Patna: The construction of Patna’s first international-standard hockey ground is in its final phase, with authorities planning to install a latest-generation Polytan Blue astroturf imported from the Netherlands. Considered among the most advanced playing surfaces used in international hockey, the turf is expected to significantly improve training and competition standards for players of the state.The facility is being developed on vacant land at the Rajendra Nagar Physical College campus at an estimated cost of Rs8.44 crore. Once completed, it will become the second international-standard hockey field in Bihar after the one built in Rajgir in Nalanda district. Officials aim to complete the remaining work within a month.The turf project, being executed by the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (Buidco), has received approval from Hockey India Federation. Federation officials inspected the site recently and expressed satisfaction with the progress of construction.Buidco managing director Animesh Kumar Parashar said most of the major components of the project have been completed. “The construction work is around 80% complete. Key works such as base construction, LED floodlights and the water management system are finished. Only the pathway, sprinkler system and installation of the turf remain,” he said.The sprinkler system, essential for maintaining astroturf surfaces, is currently being installed. The stadium complex will also include floodlights, a hostel for players, changing rooms, a warm-up area and spectator stands.The land where the ground is being built was earlier marshy and remained waterlogged for years, with water levels reaching up to two metres. Continuous seepage, tall grass and swamp layers had made the site unsuitable for sports activities.To make the ground playable, engineers excavated the marshy pockets using heavy machinery and stabilised the soil with rubble. Thousands of trolley loads of special soil were brought to the site to raise and strengthen the base before construction of the field began.
